1. education
2. high school

PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
YOUTH COUNCIL
ALWAYS FUN
ALWAYS CHALLENGING
why should
YOU apply?
I’ve been on PYC for four years now, and there
isn’t a doubt in my mind it’s something I was
meant to do. Right before Freshman year, I
decided not to go through with being confirmed in
my church. Far from an act of defiance, I chose
not to do so because it just didn’t feel ‘right.’ I
wanted it to mean something to me, and at that
point it just didn’t. The following spring I was
prompted by my youth pastor to apply for PYC.
Worried that my lack of commitment to the church
(or so it felt) would be an issue, I hesitated.
However Summer came and he continued to urge
me to apply, assuring me that Beth was willing to
push the deadline for me to do so. Three months
later, I received a letter in the mail informing me I
had been accepted onto the 2011–2012
Presbyterian Youth Council. Since then, I have
reapplied and allowed the youth council to be a
place of growth not only for myself, but also a
place where I can help young people grow in their
own faith. Youth council has been my way of
giving young people what I wished I had during
my early years as a Presbyterian youth. Youth
council showed me that it’s OK to be unsure, OK
to be a little lost sometimes, and OK to question
your faith. Amidst all the validation of uncertainty,
PYC showed me that I can be a light for young
people, and a person to show them that figuring
out yourself and your faith isn’t just a formula, and
that it isn’t always easy. But above all else, it
showed me that you are never alone in these life
experiences. Whether you’re perfectly sure of
your faith, or far from comfortable with it, I urge
any and all youth to apply to youth council. I
cherish all of the relationships I built over the past
four years, with fellow PYC members, young
people across WNC, and especially with Beth; as
a mentor, friend, and the person who let me know
it was ‘OK.’ Madeline Frellick
Applications due
by May 22nd
Questions?
Email Beth Gunn at
[email protected]
I was on PYC for 3 years and in
those 3 years I have met some
amazing people. Being on PYC
not only helped me spiritually but
also emotionally. I have grown
closer to God and have learned
more about my faith and who I am as a person. Being on PYC
helped me learn about my
spiritual gifts and what they are.
I've also grown to be a better
leader. I loved working with all
the middle and high school
students and also seeing them
grow and learn. When I have kids
from events hug me and tell me
thank you or even open up to me
I know I've done a great job and
it brings me happiness knowing
I've helped them. If it wasn't for
PYC I wouldn't be who I am
today.
Tatianna Cline
For the past three years PYC has
been a great way for me to get
away from the stresses of school
and all other things in my life.
Being on PYC has helped me
learn patience and how to lead
almost anything. Before joining
PYC I had never been involved
in anything with so many people
that challenged me to be a better
person than I already was. The
members of the Presbyterian
Youth Council are unique in
their own way but they are all so
kind-hearted and fun to be
around. You should not only join
PYC just because of they way it
makes you feel, but also for the
fun you will have with all these
amazing people. And it does
look really good on college
applications! Join PYC, it's the
right thing to do!
Spencer Sigmon
Being on the PYC of western North Carolina was a way for me to
better connect to God. It helped me be able to talk about my faith to
my friends at school. It has helped me pray out loud in front of
people. I was able to share my beliefs and show those younger than
me God. Being on PYC has improved my leadership and faith. There is nothing like seeing the reaction of someone who has just
connected with God. Chase Robertson
PYC is an overall awesome experience. It gives high school
students the opportunity to dive deeper into their faith by
helping other high school and middle school students find
theirs. During PYC I got an inside look at youth events and
learned how much it takes in order for one to take place. It's
a lot of work, but it definitely pays off. I met so many great
people that I will always be thankful for and had more fun
than I ever thought I could while actually doing work.
Lauren Nalley
PYC has been one of the greatest experiences I have ever had. As a PYC member you build relationships and friendships with people that will be life-long. Not only are we friends but we are family in PYC. PYC does not just build life-long relationships with friends but PYC has also strengthened my relationship with God. In PYC we learn to first be followers of Christ and then how to be leaders in his name. PYC has molded me into the leader and man I am today and I would not trade my time on PYC for anything. I highly suggest that anyone looking to be a leader for Christ take advantage of this opportunity. Andrew Davis
Over the past 3 years of
being on PYC. I have
gained lots of experience in
leading groups. Going into
the Council, I did not
really consider myself a
leader. After being on the
Youth Council, my
definition of a leader has
really changed. It's more
about leading in the spirit
of God and sharing God's
light with others, than
actually bossing people
around like most people
think that leaders do. PYC
has been a really great
experience all around. It's
a chance to giveback to the
Presbytery that gave me so
much joy as a kid. I am so
glad that I am able to go
and share joy in team
building, service and
recreation through PYC. I
advise anyone who is
interested in becoming
more involved in the
church, join PYC.
Nicholas Poulos
Youth Council Application
The Youth Ministry Committee is seeking rising 10th –12th graders to
join the Youth Council for 2015-2016
Due by May 22, 2015
Full Name: ____________________________________________________
Preferred Name (what name we should call you): __________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________
City: ___________________ State: ________ Zip Code: _________________
Home Phone: ____________________ Cell Phone: ______________________
E-mail address: _________________________________________________
Parent’s E-mail: _________________________________________________
Name of church where you are member: ________________________________
Birth Date: _________________ Sex: _________ Grade (2015/16): _________
Recommendations (please have them fill out the attached recommendation)
Name of Parent / Guardian (youth only): ___________________________
Name of Youth Leader / Director: ________________________________
Name of Minister / Elder / Educator: ______________________________
Please answer the following questions:
In what ways have you been active in your church or ministry? (check all that apply)
___I regularly attend Sunday School
___I regularly attend worship
___I regularly attend youth meetings and activities
___I have participated in youth/church mission trips
___I have a set devotional/prayer life
___I am part of other Christian groups
___I participate in Bible Study
___I am confirmed: When __________ and where ___________________
___I am a Youth Elder
___I have or now participate in choir/youth choir/other church music groups
___I have participated in Youth Sunday at my church
___I have participated in worship leadership other than Youth Sunday
___I have helped at Vacation Bible School/nursery care/church baby-sitting as
needed
___Other: ________________________________________________
1) In what presbytery youth events and activities have you participated?
___Middle School retreat at Camp Grier
___High School mission retreat
___Middle School Rally at Montreat
___High School Rally at Montreat
___Summer Montreat Youth Conferences
___Presbytery youth mission (summer trips)
___Let’s Celebrate
___Other: ___________________________________________
2) Besides school, family, and church what other things require your time, energy
and commitment?
___I work after school
___I am in the band/chorus/other extracurricular groups
List -
___I am a Scout or participate in other similar community organizations
___I participate in sports at school or in private organizations
a. Fall _____________________________________(list)
b. Winter ___________________________________(list)
c. Spring ___________________________________(list)
d. Summer __________________________________(list)
3) What gifts/talents do you have that would be important to the Youth Council?
___Meet people easily
___Lead activities well
___Speak well in front of people
___Am good at planning events
___Pay close attention to details
___Follow through with tasks
___Sing or play an instrument (list)__________________________
___Have a heart to serve others
___Am a good listener
___Have artistic skills
___Have computer/tech skills
Other: ______________________________________________
4) The best ways to get in touch with me are:
___Phone
___Email _____________
___Facebook Name on FB __________
___Texting
___Twitter name _____________
Other: ______________________________________________
5) How do you express your faith in your everyday life?
6) Why do you want to serve on the Youth Council?
Applicant’s Agreement:
In signing below, I understand the responsibilities and requirements expected of me as
member of the Presbytery of Western North Carolina’s Youth Council, and I am aware
that there are costs involved for some events (see attached schedule). I understand that
failure to abide by these expectations listed in the Job Description will result in my
removal from the Youth Council. I understand that three absences from rallies, retreats,
or council meetings during the August 2015 to July 2016 year will result in my removal
from the council. If selected for youth council, I give permission for my photograph to
be used in publicity.
Applicant’s Signature: ____________________________ Date: ___________
We the session of ____________________________ affirm
____________________’s application to serve on the Youth Council of the
Presbytery of Western North Carolina. We will strive in every way to stay in contact
with this applicant, helping them continue to grow in faith and maintain their
responsibility as a representative to the Presbytery of Western North Carolina.
In signing this commitment, the Session agrees to invite our youth council
member(s) to a Session meeting at least once during the 2015-16 school
year to share with the Session the work of the council.
Clerk of Session: _______________________________ Date: _________
Please send this application along with your answers by May 22nd to:
PWNC Youth Ministries Committee
114 Silver Creek Road
Morganton, NC 28655
Fax # - 828-437-8655
Parent / Guardian Recommendation
Due by May 22nd
Applicant’s Name: _______________________________________________
Name of Church: ________________________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (1) Full Name: ____________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (2) Full Name:____________________________________
Mailing Address: ________________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________ Work Number: ___________________
Email Address: _________________________________________________
Recommendation Questions: (Please briefly answers these questions on a separate
sheet of paper and attach to this form)
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
What are some of the strengths and weaknesses of the applicant?
How would you characterize this applicant’s dependability (following through on
responsibilities)?
Is the applicant actively and willingly participating in church activities? Please give examples.
Do you have any reservations about this applicant’s serving as a leader for the Presbytery of
Western North Carolina’s youth ministry? If so please describe?
What are some of the ways that your youth will grow from serving on the Youth Council?
Presbytery Youth Council offers its members the opportunity to serve the church and
their peers as they plan and implement presbytery-wide youth events. It is hard work
and makes demands on busy schedules, but the experience is also very rewarding and
faith-building. Youth Council members will develop leadership and planning skills,
experience many unique events and opportunities, and make lasting friendships with
other youth.
An important component of an effective Presbytery Youth Council is parents/guardians
of the youth. Being supportive of their responsibilities and encouraging their active
participation on the council is essential. If your child is selected to serve on the Council,
we need to know that it meets with your approval and that you would provide
encouragement, support, and help in making transportation arrangements to and from
events and meeting.
I am aware that ___________________________ is applying for a position on the
Presbytery of Western North Carolina Youth Council and have read the job description
for the youth council members. I will support their participation on Youth Council if
they are selected. I understand that three absences from rallies, retreats, or council
meetings during the August 2015 to July 2016 year will result in my child’s removal
from the council. I understand that while the participation of each youth council
member is supported financially by the Presbytery, there are some events for which my
child is expected to pay a portion of the fee (see attached schedule).
Parent / Guardian’s Signature: ______________________________________
Please Submit this form along with the answers to:
PWNC Youth Ministries Com., 114 Silver Creek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655
Youth Leader / Director Recommendation
Due by May 22nd
Applicant’s Name: ____________________________________________
Name of Church: _____________________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (1) Full Name: _________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (2) Full Name: _________________________________
Recommendation Questions: (Please briefly answers these questions on a separate
sheet of paper and attach to this form)
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
How long have you known the applicant?
How would this person be a good role model and example for others?
Do you have any reservations about this applicant’s serving as a leader in youth
ministry for the Presbytery of Western North Carolina? If so please describe?
Do you perceive that the applicant’s family will be supportive of their
participation on youth council, if they are selected?
Is the applicant active in the life of your congregation? In what ways?
Please comment on the applicant’s dependability - follows through on
responsibilities, participation in church activities and participation in Church
youth activities.
Youth Leader / Director Agreement:
In signing below, I affirm my responses to this recommendation form and will accept
this Youth Council Applicant’s role as a representative of this church, if selected. I will
strive in every way to stay in contact with this applicant, helping them to continue to
grow in faith and maintain their responsibility as a representative to the Presbytery of
Western North Carolina. I will see that this youth person is invited to a Session meeting
during the year to report on his/her work. I understand that three absences from
rallies, retreats, or council meetings during the August 2015 to July 2016 year will result
in removal from the council.
Youth Leader / Director’s Signature: ______________________ Date: _______
Please submit this form along with the answers to:
PWNC Youth Ministries Comm., 114 Silver Creek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655
Minister / Elder Recommendation
Due by May 22nd
Applicant’s Name: ______________________________________________
Name of Church: _______________________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (1) Full Name: ___________________________________
Parent / Guardian’s (2) Full Name: ___________________________________
Recommendation Questions: (Please briefly answers these questions on a separate
sheet of paper and attach to this form)
1)
How long have you known the applicant?
2)
How would this person be a good role model and example for others?
3)
Do you have any reservations about this applicant’s serving as a leader in youth
ministry for the Presbytery of Western North Carolina? If so please describe?
4)
Do you perceive that the applicant’s family will be supportive of their
participation on youth council, if they are selected?
5)
Is the applicant active in the life of your congregation? In what ways?
6)
Please comment on the applicant’s dependability - follows through on
responsibilities, participation in church activities and participation in Church youth
activities
Minister/Elder
In signing below, I affirm my responses to this recommendation form and will accept
this Youth Council Applicant’s role as a representative of this church, if selected. I will
strive in every way to stay in contact with this applicant, helping them to continue to
grow in faith and maintain their responsibility as a representative to the Presbytery of
Western North Carolina. I will see that this youth person is invited to a Session meeting
during the year to report on his/her work. I understand that three absences from
rallies, retreats, or council meetings during the August 2015 to July 2016 year will result
in removal from the council.
Minister / Elder’s Signature: __________________________ Date: __________
Please submit this form along with the answers to:
PWNC Youth Ministries Comm., 114 Silver Creek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655
SCHEDULE for August 2015 – July 2016
Youth Council Retreats, Rallies, Planning
Meetings and Events
Event
Orientation Event
Date
August 15-16, 2015
Location
Camp Grier
Cost?
$25
September 12, 2015
FPC Morganton
none
High School Rally
September 20, 2015
Montreat, NC
none
Planning Meeting for
October 17, 2015
Black Mtn.
none
Middle School Retreat November 6-8, 2015
Camp Grier, NC
$25
Planning Meeting for
February 20, 2016
Hickory
none
March 4-5, 2016
TBA
TBA
April 17 or 24, 2016
Montreat, NC
none
Mandatory Attendance
Planning Meeting for
H.S. Rally
M.S. Retreat
H.S. Retreat
High School Mission
Retreat
Middle School Event